A hearing in court is a legal proceeding in which the charges against a defendant are presented to the court. The defendant receives a copy of the charging document and is required to answer the charge by entering a plea. The defendant should be arraigned in open court, usually shortly after the complaint or information is filed. Normally, a defendant is advised of his or her right to defense counsel before arraignment. At this hearing, the defendant must appear in court, accompanied by the prosecuting authority or defense counsel. In some jurisdictions, a defendant may appear without defense counsel.
Table of Contents
Remote hearings are on the record
If you’re having a difficult time attending a court hearing, you may be able to participate remotely. Depending on the court, this can be done via phone or video conference. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions provided by the court presiding over the hearing. For example, you should make sure that you use a private, quiet space where you and the other party can avoid being distracted. Also, you should make sure that children are not present. You’ll also want to make sure that the lighting is appropriate.
In addition to meeting in person with the judge, you can also file motions or questions via mail. However, it’s best to submit your motion as far in advance as possible, so that the court can make appropriate arrangements. Once you submit your motion, the judge will review it and decide whether or not the remote hearing is appropriate.
Preliminary and Felony hearings
A preliminary hearing is the first stage in a criminal case. During this stage, the prosecutor presents evidence and witnesses to show probable cause for a crime. This evidence is used to determine whether a defendant should proceed to trial. The prosecutor must also demonstrate whether there are any aggravating circumstances.
A defendant who has been charged with a felony must appear at a preliminary hearing. This hearing is like a miniature trial, where the prosecutor will use evidence to prove that there was sufficient evidence to charge the defendant with the crime. This hearing can be held right after the first arraignment or several weeks later.
In a preliminary hearing, the prosecutor and defense counsel may present their witnesses. However, these witnesses must be qualified to testify. In some cases, the police may use hearsay evidence to make their case stronger.
Stipulation on continuance agreements
If you’ve decided to change the terms of a divorce, you’ll need to file a Stipulation on Continuance Agreement in court with the court. This document informs the judge of the new agreement and makes it part of the court record. If the agreement is not legally binding, it’s unlikely to be signed by a judge.
This is not the end-all solution, but it’s an excellent option for many people. In some instances, the prosecutor will even move to dismiss the case, providing the defendant fulfills their end of the agreement. But be sure to ask your lawyer for legal advice before agreeing to an Stipulation on Continuance.
Pre-sentence investigation
The Pre-sentence Investigation Hearing is held by the court after a defendant pleads guilty or is convicted of a crime. It is a procedural requirement that is based on the federal and state rules of criminal procedure. The process begins by scheduling an interview with the defendant. The interview should last no more than 30 minutes.
The PSIR includes information on the defendant’s background, educational background, family and social life. The report summarizes this information for the court and can help the judge determine an appropriate sentence.
Permanency hearing
A child’s right to attend a permanency hearing in court should be respected. A child should have an opportunity to talk to their lawyer or social worker before the hearing. The hearing should take place at a time that works for the child. For example, it might be held after school or on a weekend.
During a permanency hearing, the court will discuss the best interests of the child and the services that should be provided. The court will also ask about efforts made to place the child with a parent or relative. It may also address efforts made to adopt the child.
